A child’s first visit to the dentist can be a bit scary. More often than not, you as a parent are more scared than your child. However, if you educate yourself properly beforehand and therefore know what to expect, you will find out that it doesn’t have to be a scary experience for you or your child.
One of the most commonly asked questions is that of what age your child should first visit their pediatric dentist in Waco. Most dental professionals will advise you to take your child to their first pediatric dentist appointment 6 months after their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday.
Now that you know when you should take your child in, let’s talk a bit about how you can prepare and what you can expect at your child’s first visit to the dentist.
#1 How to prepare for your child’s first visit to the dentist
Although your child is young, anywhere around 10 to 14 months old when you first take them to the dentist, you want to teach them to associate the dentist with positive feelings. When you talk about going to the dentist, do so in an uplifting and excited tone. You can even show your child how you brush your teeth and make it fun!
#2 What to expect at your child’s first visit to the dentist at Bellmead Kid's Dentistry
It will depend on your child’s age, but the visit will likely include a full exam of any teeth, the jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues. This examination is so that Dr. Susan Francis can check on the growth and development of your child’s mouth. If your child is a bit older at their first visit and have more teeth, they may also need a gentle cleaning.
No matter the dentist, and although your child isn’t in pain, you can expect that they may cry at their first visit. This is normal as new places, new people, and new things are sometimes overwhelming for certain children. They may not like the initial examination of their mouth, which also may cause them to cry. Keep in mind that this is normal and eventually they will warm up to Dr. Susan Francis and the experience.
After inspecting your child’s mouth, Dr. Susan Francis will want to discuss their findings. Don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Susan Francis any questions you may have. Dr. Susan Francis may also want to discuss several things with you in order to help you keep their oral health in check. These may include:
- Nursing techniques
- Bottle-feeding techniques
- Pacifier use, when and how to stop
- Thumb-sucking
- Tooth development and growth
- Brushing techniques
- Flossing techniques
#3 When you should schedule your child’s appointment
Try and schedule your child’s appointment for a time of the day that they will be well-rested, with a happy tummy, and in the best mood. This will make it easier on you, your pediatric dentist in Waco and your child.
#4 Choose a pediatric dentist in Waco that you can trust
Whom you take your child to will make a huge difference in how you and your child see going to the dentist. You want to ensure your child’s dentist and team are good with children and will offer them a comfortable and fun environment. Here at Bellmead Kid's Dentistry you can expect just that.
Taking your child to their first dental appointment doesn’t have to be scary. As an experienced and widely trusted pediatric dentist in Waco we will do everything we can to ensure your child’s first visit to the dentist is a good experience. Call us today to schedule an appointment.